Why are so many properties plain old square or rectangular? Circles are so much more interesting. Perhaps it’s because they’re much easier to construct. Also, angular furniture – especially fixtures such as fitted kitchens – can look odd in a curved interior. Nevertheless, many adventurous architects and homebuilders take the plunge and design round houses.

I especially like the open atriums or courtyards that can often be found at the centre of round houses. They make for quiet, private oases; often incorporating trees, pond or pool and seating areas.

Here are three round houses that we discovered that are currently for sale – one in the North of England, one in the far South of England and the last one which is just outside the Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Northern Ireland.

Offers over £314,950: The Round House, 135 Fivemile Straight, Maghera, Northern Ireland BT46 5JP

The Round House offers a special opportunity to acquire an architecturally stunning detached bungalow, tucked away a short drive from the main arterial A6 Glenshane Road and Maghera.

• Shortlisted in the NI House of the Year for BBC in 2011, The Round House extends to c.3,200 sq.ft. and is uniquely designed with a Gaudi theme.
• Exceptional standard of finish throughout including: underfloor heating; recessed lighting; solid wooden beams; solid Oak doors; Gaudi themed joinery and entrance gates; Bangor Blue roof slates etc.
• Fabulous internal accommodation including: master bedroom with en suite and two other bedrooms sharing an additional en suite; large lounge/dining area; spacious and modern kitchen/diner etc.
• Detached double garage block with electronic doors and range of stores.
• Exquisite grounds comprising: manicured lawns; mature trees, shrubs and hedging; wooden gazebo on raised wooden decking; brick paved BBQ area; enclosed private courtyard etc.
• Ample parking facilities with tarmac car parking areas to front and side of dwelling.
• Access via bespoke electronic gates and entrance pillars/walls.
• Recently fitted alarm and CCTV system (installed 2021).

£390,000: The Round House, Northney Marina, Hayling Island, Hampshire PO11 0FR

The Round House is an iconic building at the heart of Northney Marina in Hayling Island that began its life as a theatre and later converted to office space. Recently it has been transformed into 21 modern, contemporary apartments with an exceptional interior specification.

• 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, ground floor luxury apartment
• Engineered oak flooring and carpets throughout
• Integrated kitchen appliances
• Silent Gliss blackout blinds
• Sunny westerly facing, decked veranda
• 2 parking spaces
• Leasehold: 197 years remaining

£1,500,000: Broad Lane, Downholland L39 7HX

A true architectural masterpiece, this home will captivate you from the moment you lay eyes on its unique structure. Modern in spirit with architecture rooted in tradition ‘The Round House’ offers what is surely one of West Lancashire’s most striking residential properties. The home is a dramatic addition to the landscape and is positioned on a fabulous, gated plot with a generous 8 acres of land, offering unrivalled privacy and tranquillity.

• True architectural masterpiece
• Four double bedrooms (all with en-suites)
• Circa 5240 square feet
• Breath-taking kitchen/living area
• Beautiful central courtyard
• 8 acres of land
• Extensive forecourt parking
• Attached double garage
• Expansive gated plot